The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid bet if you want a reasonably sized crossover SUV with plenty of backseat space. You can also upgrade to a powerful V6 engine, which is an unusual treat in this class. Let's see if this veteran player still has what it takes.
Pros Backseat has plenty of space and slides/reclines for added comfort Optional V6 engine provides quick acceleration Interior stays quiet at speed Rides smoothly on rough roads.
Cons Four-cylinder version feels sluggish and real-world mpg falls short of EPA ratings Less cargo space than some rivals Quality of interior materials leaves something to be desired Bluetooth audio isn't offered on L or LS.
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid compact crossover SUV. What it lacks in advanced powertrains, it makes up for in available tech. The Chevrolet Equinox has struck the right chord for many compact crossover buyers. It offers a range of powertrains, including front- or all-wheel drive; it can be fuel efficient; and it's relatively large.
Pros Inline-4 is frugal Space is configurable for cargo or people Plenty of power in V-6 Exterior style has been improved Relatively good tech
Cons No premium audio to speak of Rear visibility is a challenge Safety marks not quite top tier
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox ranks 5 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The Chevrolet Equinox was redesigned for the 2018 model year and sees some admirable improvements over the outgoing generation. It has a quality interior, plenty of standard features, and a good amount of cargo and passenger space. It rides and drives confidently but can be slow to get up to speed.
Pros Plenty of standard features Quality interior Stable handling
Cons Sluggish transmission
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 ranks 2 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Mazda CX-5 ranks near the top of the compact SUV class for its outstanding performance, comfortable passenger space, high-quality interior, and laudable features.
Pros Fantastic performance Smooth ride Upscale cabin Roomy and comfortable seats
Cons Average engine power Low predicted reliability rating
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 has been fully redesigned. Though its dimensions haven't changed, it's smoother and quieter to drive. Other improvements include sharper styling, a more upscale cabin and some new features. Its engine and automatic transmission are largely carried over, though last year's manual transmission is no longer available.
Pros Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Quieter on the highway than before
Cons Not as powerful as some rivals
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 takes a lot of small steps forward, but are any of them big enough changes to sway buyers? The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is new this year, and improves upon last year's model with a better interior and exterior look, quieter ride, a new-ish standard engine, and a coming turbodiesel that could be among the leaders for small crossovers in highway mileage. It's offered in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims with varying levels of creature comforts.
Pros Best-looking compact crossover, by our eyes Improved interior Excellent driveability Fold-flat rear seats
Cons Not dramatically different than outgoing model Turbodiesel arriving later this year Finicky infotainment system Small-ish cargo area
